Atmospheric Environmental Research

This is an extended version of lectures that were held at the summer workshop Atmosphiirische Umweltforschung im Spannungsfeld zwischen Technik und Natur (At mospheric Environmental Research between Technology and Nature) at the Techni 16, 1996. We were very happy to have Paul J. Crutzen, cal University in Cottbus on July winner of the Nobel Prize for chemistry in 1995, presenting the key lecture on glo bally changing chemistry in the atmosphere. Over the last decades, atmospheric chem istry has been established step by step, not just as an applied discipline of chemistry, but also as a key discipline for our understanding of air pollution, biogeochemical cycling, and climactic processes as well. In fact, the new definition of meteorology as the science of physics and chemistry of the atmosphere expresses this development very well. The chemistry of the atmosphere is strongly influenced by anthropogenic emissions, even on a global scale. As a result of emissions and chemical reactions, the chemical composition of the atmosphere influences the ecosystems directly via depo sition of trace substances, and indirectly by changing the physical climate. Therefore, in this book we combined state-of-the-art lectures describing the physical and chemi cal status of the atmosphere and selected issues representing the interface between atmosphere, technology and nature. Oxidising capacity, heterogeneous processes and acidity still remain as key issues in atmospheric chemistry, even in regions where efficient air control measures have been adopted resulting in reduction of primary atmospheric pollutants.

This comprehensive introduction to the physics and chemistry of Earth's atmosphere explains the science behind some of the most critical and intensely debated environmental controversies of our day. In it, one of the world's leading experts on planetary environments presents the background necessary to assess the complex effects of human activity on our atmosphere and climate. Unique in its breadth and depth of coverage, The Atmospheric Environment includes a survey of Earth's climatic history to provide a context for assessing the changes underway today. It is written for--and will be of lasting value to--a varied audience, including not only students but also professional scientists and others seeking a sophisticated but readable introduction to the frontiers of contemporary research on biogeochemistry, depletion of stratospheric ozone, tropospheric air pollution, and climatology. The book covers both the chemistry and physics of the atmosphere with an account of relevant aspects of ocean science, treats atmospheric science and the climate as an integrated whole, and makes explicit the policy implications of what is known. Its critical account of steps taken by the international community to address the issue of climatic change highlights the challenge of dealing with a global issue for which the political and economic stakes are high, where uncertainties are common, and where there is an urgent need for clear thinking and informed policy. The book also sketches key gaps in our knowledge, outlining where we need to go to fully understand the impact of our actions on the climate. Thorough, timely, and authoritative, this is the book to consult for answers about some of the thorniest and most pressing environmental questions that we face.

Climate change and air quality are two of the most pressing issuesfacing Mankind. This book gives undergraduate and graduate studentsand professionals working in the science and policy of pollution,climate change and air quality a broad and up-to-date account ofour understanding of the processes that occur in the atmosphere,how these are changing as Man’s relentless use of naturalresources continues and what effects these changes are having onthe Earth’s climate and the quality of the air we breath. Written by an international team of experts, this text gives anexcellent overview of our current understanding of the state of theEarth’s atmosphere and how it is changing. It is aninvaluable resource for students, teachers and professionals. Key features: End of chapter questions Each chapter includes both basic concepts and more in-depthmaterial, allowing faculty to direct students accordingly Most up-to-date treatment of key issues such as stratosphericchemistry, urban air pollution, and climate change

The environment is considered the surroundings in which an organism operates, including air, water, land, natural resources, flora, fauna, humans and their interrelation. It is this environment which is both so valuable, on the one hand, and so endangered on the other. And it is people which are by and large ruining the environment both for themselves and for all other organisms. This book reviews the latest research in this field which is vital for everyone.

Enlightens readers on the realities of global atmospheric change, including global warming and poor air quality Climate change and air pollution are two of the most pressing issues facing Mankind. This book gives undergraduate and graduate students, researchers and professionals working in the science and policy of pollution, climate change and air quality a broad and up-to-date account of the processes that occur in the atmosphere, how these are changing as Man’s relentless use of natural resources continues, and what effects these changes are having on the Earth’s climate and the quality of the air we breathe. Written by an international team of experts, Atmospheric Science for Environmental Scientists, 2nd Edition provides an excellent overview of our current understanding of the state of the Earth’s atmosphere and how it is changing. The first half of the book covers: the climate of the Earth; chemical evolution of the atmosphere; atmospheric energy and the structure of the atmosphere; biogeochemical cycles; and tropospheric chemistry and air pollution. The second half looks at cloud formation and chemistry; particulate matter in the atmosphere; stratospheric chemistry and ozone depletion; boundary layer meteorology and atmospheric dispersion; urban air pollution; and global warming and climate change science. Provides succinct but detailed information on all the important aspects of atmospheric science for students Offers the most up-to-date treatment of key issues such as stratospheric chemistry, urban air pollution, and climate change Each chapter includes basic concepts, end-of-section questions, and more in-depth material Features contributions from the best experts and educators in the field of atmospheric science Atmospheric Science for Environmental Scientists, 2nd Edition is an invaluable resource for students, teachers, and professionals involved in environmental science. It will also appeal to those interested in learning how the atmosphere works, how humankind is changing its composition, and what effects these changes are leading to.